Classic FM celebrates 25 years of broadcasting

The UK’s first national legal commercial radio station, Classic FM, launched 25 years ago today, and celebrated with a live broadcast from a stately home.

The Global station was broadcasting on Wednesday evening from 8.15pm till 10pm at Dumfries House where His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall were also in attendance.

The evening began with special performances from Aled Jones, alongside his fellow Classic FM presenter, Myleene Klass. From his classical album One Voice, Aled performed a track duetting with the voice of his younger self. He was then joined by Myleene on the harp, to play the traditional Welsh folk song Suo Gan.

Other highlights included performances of Bach’s Cello Suite No.1 and Mendelssohn’s Piano Trio No.1, featuring student musicians from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (of which Prince Charles is Patron); two traditional Scottish melodies performed by folk singer Josie Duncan; and music by Chopin and Liszt, played by pianist Ji Liu.

The final performance was the world premiere of Twilight Falls on Temple View by Welsh composer Paul Mealor – written about Dumfries House, especially for the celebration.

Aled Jones and Myleene Klass rehearsing for Classic FM’s 25th Birthday Celebration at Dumfries House, Scotland. The recital will be held in the presence of His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall.